Wake up at the weekend in Knoxville and head to The Plaid Apron to start your day with a pile of delicious pancakes and a steaming hot coffee. When you’re satisfied your appetite, wander down to Market Square Farmers’ Market to pick up some plants to make your student housing more homely, or browse the giant baked goods and fresh vegetables on offer for dinner later. In this comfort-food heavy neighborhood, there is always some hearty cuisine cooked by a friendly local for you to try.

In the afternoon, head down to Ijams Nature Park to burn off some energy on the hiking trails or wave at the red pandas at Knoxville Zoo. You could even rent jet skis on the Tennessee River or see your city from a great height on the observation deck on The Sunsphere. Take the elevator up another floor to enjoy the views while you sip a cold drink in the Icon Ultra Lounge afterwards.

When evening comes, embrace the local sports scene as you cheer on a Volunteers game at the Neyland Stadium. Then head to Calhoun’s on the Tennessee river, making sure to sample their renowned southern barbecue. Alternatively, Knoxville’s rich cultural scene will keep you occupied for hours whether you choose to visit the Museum of Art to see impressive exhibitions or bag some tickets for a play at the Bijou Theater. End the night sipping a few cold drinks with some fellow students in the beer garden at the Bearden Beer Market.